[Maryland State Arts Council](https://www.msac.org)

November 2026 (application deadline, projected)

$2,000–$25,000 per award; one-time or up to three consecutive years for the same project

Supports unique, innovative, and capacity-building arts projects in Maryland that fall outside the scope of standard grant programs.

--- ## Description This program provides flexible funding for arts activities and organizational needs that do not fit within the Maryland State Arts Council’s (MSAC) established grant programs. It is designed to support: - Pilot or one-time projects, - Innovative projects that address specific constituent needs, and - Capacity-building initiatives for arts organizations or organizations with dedicated arts programs. The grant encourages experimentation, innovation, and organizational strengthening, aiming to bolster the Maryland arts sector’s stability and vision. Funding is intended for projects representing a departure from regular activities but aligned with MSAC’s goals of creative support and sector capacity-building. --- ## Due Dates - **Application deadline (anticipated): November 2026** *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Awards typically range from **$2,000 to $25,000**. - Funding may support a single project for up to three consecutive years, but continued funding is not guaranteed. - Projects may be funded at the full amount requested or not at all; partial funding is not considered. --- ## Eligibility Eligible applicants must be: - **Arts organizations** or **organizations with dedicated arts programs** (including 501(c)(3) nonprofits, government units, colleges/universities, and schools in Maryland). - Organizations using **Model A Fiscal Sponsorship** are eligible, provided the sponsored artist(s) meet Maryland residency requirements. - Applicants must have completed at least one fiscal year of ongoing arts activities prior to applying. - Only one Special Request grant may be received per fiscal year. - Independent artists are **not eligible** to apply directly. Additional requirements: - Applicants must be in good standing with the Maryland State Department of Assessment and Taxation. - All proposed projects must be: - Pilot/one-time projects, - Innovative projects benefiting specific constituent groups, or - Capacity-building efforts. --- ## Application Process - Applications are submitted through the [SmartSimple online grants system](http://marylandarts.smartsimple.com). - Applicants must complete and submit all materials electronically by the deadline. - Applications are reviewed by a panel of arts professionals, using published rubric criteria. - If awarded, grantees must execute a grant agreement and will receive payment within 6–8 weeks. - A final report describing use of funds and project outcomes is required upon completion. --- ## Additional Information - Special Request funds **cannot** be used for non-arts expenses, activities not open to the public, capital expenses, debt servicing, lobbying, or activities already funded by another MSAC grant. - Organizations may reapply for the same project in the same fiscal year if not initially successful, provided feedback is sought and additional rounds are offered. - Community support (financial or partnership) is encouraged but not required for eligibility. - Accessibility and non-discrimination requirements apply to all funded activities. --- ## External Links - [Special Request Grant Program Page](https://www.msac.org/programs/special-requests/special-request-grant) - [Maryland State Arts Council Home](https://www.msac.org) - [SmartSimple Application Portal](http://marylandarts.smartsimple.com) - [FY24 Special Request Guidelines (PDF)](https://msac.org/sites/default/files/2023-10/FY%2024%20Special%20Request%20guidelines.pdf) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Title | Email | Phone | |---------------------|-----------------|-----------------------------------------|----------------| | Chad Buterbaugh | Deputy Director | [chad.buterbaugh@maryland.gov](mailto:chad.buterbaugh@maryland.gov) | 443-469-8239 | | General Inquiries | | [msac.commerce@maryland.gov](mailto:msac.commerce@maryland.gov) | 410-767-6555 |

Special Requests

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